Set the Scene: A Skyline Celebration at Maritime Parc

Katie and Nick’s Summer Maritime Parc Wedding in Jersey City was nothing short of magical, blending coastal vibes with unbeatable city views. Set right on the waterfront, Maritime Parc gave them a perfect view of the NYC skyline—ideal for their sophisticated yet relaxed celebration. I started the day capturing Katie as she got ready with her bridesmaids and both moms, all wearing the cutest matching pajamas. After some laughs, mimosas, and a few sweet moments, Katie’s mom helped her into her gorgeous gown, assisted by her day of coordinator from Most Valuable Bridesmaid who was the absolute best to work with! (Shout out to Erin!)

The couple’s first look was a moment to remember! Katie and Nick stood on the balcony, overlooking Jersey City, with Katie’s parents watching lovingly from a distance. Before this, Katie shared a quiet first look with her dad at the same spot, a sweet moment for her dad to see his only daughter dressed as a bride.

Their Love Story

Katie and Nick’s journey started back in college at the University of Delaware, thanks to a shared friendship through Katie’s roommate. Years later, Nick popped the question on a quiet morning while they were at his family’s lake house. He surprised Katie on the deck as she walked their dog, Pepper, and the proposal was as perfect as it was unexpected! They’ve built a beautiful life together, including adopting Pepper, a sweet pitbull mix who also joined in on their engagement session at Coney Island. (Check it out here!)

Their love for each other is as timeless as their favorite pastimes—taking sunset walks around Brooklyn, enjoying new restaurants, and planning for the future. Now, as they look forward to finding their first home together, this wedding was the perfect beginning to their next chapter.

After their first look, we headed over to Liberty State Park to capture some portraits. It was especially meaningful as Katie’s parents took their wedding portraits in the same spot years ago! We even recreated her parents’ wedding portrait with the Statue of Liberty in the background—a beautiful way to blend family history into Katie and Nick’s day.

Back at the venue, we took some portraits with their wedding party on Maritime Parc’s balcony, using the sweeping views of the skyline as a breathtaking backdrop. The setting sun lit up the cityscape just perfectly! I always suggest building in a bit of buffer time on wedding days so couples can soak up moments like this. It’s not only about capturing the pictures but about living in each beautiful moment, with the people who mean the most to you. Wedding days have little surprises that keep things interesting, like at Tracy & Kevin’s wedding, where we navigated around a broken gondola—thankfully, buffer time kept things on track!

Their friend officiated their ceremony, making it so special and personal, and their vows were simple yet powerful. Before we knew it, Katie and Nick were sealing it with a kiss, officially Mr. and Mrs.!

Katie and Nick’s first dance was sweet and beautiful, dancing to This is How You Fall in Love by Jeremy Zucker & Chelsea Cutler. They even ended it with a perfect dip that had everyone cheering! They then led their guests in a lively Tarantella, a traditional Italian dance where everyone held hands and joined in a celebratory dance circle.

Halfway through the night, Katie slipped away for a quick outfit change, re-emerging in a modern twist on her mother’s wedding dress. Zatsarina Fashion transformed her mom’s gown into an incredible top and pants combo that looked effortlessly chic. We took some nighttime portraits right after, with the NYC skyline glittering in the background—easily some of my favorite photos from the entire day.

Katie and Nick

Your wedding was filled with such genuine moments, from the sweet first look to the lively dance floor and the family-centered details woven throughout. It was truly an honor to capture and be part of these unforgettable moments. Thank you for trusting me to document your beautiful day and letting me witness the love, laughter, and pure joy that surrounded you both. Here’s to many more walks, sunset dinners, and adventures together—congratulations again, Katie and Nick!

Photographer: Brenna Marie Photography
Venue: Maritime Parc
Day Of Coordinator: Most Valuable Bridesmaid
Hair Stylist: Voa Salon And Studio
Make Up Artist: Lauren Berlingeri
Florist: Karma Floral & Event Design
Dj: Posh Djs (brandon Villani)
Invitation Suite: Truly Engaging
Dress Boutique: I Do… I Do…
Dress Designer: Provonias
Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Engagement Ring: Brilliant Earth
Wedding Rings: Brilliant Earth
Suit Designer: Bonobos
Bridesmaids Dresses: Birdy Grey

Brenna Marie Photography is a nontraditional, colorful, true to color, candid, storyteller wedding and portrait photographer for couples based in Maryland, the DMV, NoVA and Washington, DC. Want to see more photos like this Summer Maritime Parc Wedding? Head over to the blog! brennamariephoto.com/blog. Ready to book your session? Reach out through brennamariephoto.com/contact.

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